Moffat Mungazi
Fidelis Chavarike
Weekender Reporter
A RENT dispute between a Hobhouse landlord and his tenant recently turned nasty, leaving the former battered and bruised.
The tenant, Trymore Sithole (47), appeared before Mutare provincial magistrate, Mr Tendai Mahwe, facing assault charges as defined in Section 89 (1)(b) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23.
Sithole was sentenced to 18 months in prison, with two months suspended on condition that he does not commit a similar offence in the next five years.
Additionally, he was ordered to perform 210 hours of community service at Sacred Heart Primary School in Hobhouse.
The court heard that Sithole’s actions were intended to cause bodily harm on his landlord, Liberty Katerere.
He never showed any remorse for the December brutal attack on Katerere.
Testifying in court, Katerere said: “I was attacked by my tenant after I asked him for the rent. He struck me with a piece of wood all over my body several times. He also stabbed me with a knife on my right thumb.’’
Katerere sustained severe injuries, including a cut on the right thumb.
In convicting Sithole, Mr Mahwe said: “The accused’s behaviour was unacceptable, and posed a significant threat to the safety and wellbeing of his landlord, Liberty Katerere. The court will not tolerate such violence, and will take stern measure to ensure that justice is served.’’
Upon the sentencing of Sithole, a hugely relieved Katerere could be heard saying: “Justice has been served.’’
Online Reporter